The 13th
meeting of the Plants Committee (PC-13) of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES) convened from 12-15 August 2003, in Geneva, Switzerland. The
meeting drew together some 75 participants representing governments,
intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.

Delegates at PC-13
met in Plenary throughout the week to discuss 27 agenda items on a
range of topics, including, inter alia, follow-up of
decisions from CITES’ 12th Conference of the Parties (COP-12),
review of the Appendices, checklists and nomenclature, strategic
planning, regional reports, and significant trade. Several working
groups were set up to address specific issues, including:
prioritizing the working programme for the period until COP-13;
clarifying language and terms used in resolutions on registration of
nurseries exporting artificially propagated specimens of Appendix I
species, and on regulation of trade in plants; the terms of
reference and schedule for the review of criteria for amending the
Appendices I and II; evaluating the Significant Trade Review;
implementing the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Global
Strategy for Plant Conservation; and improving communication between
regional representatives and Parties.

Despite a heavy
agenda, the Plants Committee managed to get through its work, but
due to time constraints not every agenda item was given the
attention it deserved and many issues will be revisited at the
Committee’s next meeting early in 2004.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF CITES

CITES came into
being as a response to growing concerns that over-exploitation of
wildlife through international trade was contributing to the rapid
decline of many species of plants and animals around the world. The
Convention was signed by representatives from 80 countries in
Washington, DC, on 3 March 1973, and entered into force on 1 July
1975. There are currently 163 Parties to the Convention.

The Convention’s aim
is to ensure that the international trade of wild animal and plant
species does not threaten their survival. Parties to CITES regulate
wildlife trade through controls and regulations on species listed in
three Appendices. Appendix I lists species endangered due to
international trade. Trade of such species is permitted only in
exceptional circumstances. Species listed in Appendix II require
strictly regulated trade based on quotas and permits to prevent
their unsustainable use, and controls aimed at maintaining
ecosystems and preventing species from becoming eligible for
Appendix I. Appendix III species are subject to domestic regulation
by a Party that requests the cooperation of other Parties to control
international trade in that species. In order to list a species, a
Party needs to submit a proposal for COP approval, with scientific
and biological data on population and trade trends. The proposal
must be supported by a two-thirds majority vote of Parties present
at a COP. As the trade impact on a species increases or decreases,
the COP decides whether or not the species should be shifted between
or removed from Appendices. There are approximately 5,000 fauna
species and 25,000 flora species protected under the three CITES
Appendices.

CITES also regulates
international trade of species through a system of permits and
certificates that are required before specimens enter or leave a
country. Each Party is required to adopt national legislation and to
designate a Management Authority responsible for issuing these
permits and certificates based on the advice of a designated
Scientific Authority. These two national authorities also assist
with CITES enforcement through cooperation with customs, police, or
other appropriate agencies. Parties maintain trade records that are
forwarded annually to the CITES Secretariat, the sum of which
enables the Secretariat to compile statistical information on the
world volume of trade in Appendix species.

The operational
bodies of CITES include its Standing Committee (SC), as well as
scientific advisory committees: the Animals Committee (AC) and the
Plants Committee (PC); and their subcommittees, the Nomenclature
Committee and the Identification Manual Committee. As scientific and
technical support bodies, the role of both the AC and PC is to:
undertake periodic reviews of species to ensure appropriate
categorization in the CITES Appendices; advise when certain species
are subject to unsustainable trade, and recommend action; and draft
resolutions on animal and plant matters for consideration by the
Parties.

TENTH MEETING OF THE
PLANTS COMMITTEE: PC-10 met
in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, US, from 11-15 December 2000. The
Committee addressed: follow-up of COP-11 decisions; technical and
species proposals for COP-12, such as the definition of
"artificially propagated," standard exemptions for derivatives of
plant species and definitions of technical terms used in annotations
for medicinal plants; significant trade in plants; and review of
Appendices.

ELEVENTH MEETING OF
THE PLANTS COMMITTEE: PC-11
met in Langkawi, Malaysia, from 3-7 September 2001. Participants
considered: follow-up to COP-11 decisions; species and technical
proposals for COP-12, such as harvesting of Galanthus;
medicinal plants; guidelines for transport in live plants; tree
species evaluation; and trade in Mexican cacti.

TWELFTH MEETING OF
THE PLANTS COMMITTEE: PC-12
met in Leiden, the Netherlands, from 13-16 May 2002, to consider a
number of items, including: technical and species proposals for
COP-12; significant trade in plants; medicinal plants; review of the
Appendices; strategic planning; and evaluation of certification.
Participants also discussed de-listing artificially propagated
orchid hybrids.

CITES COP-12:
COP-12 convened from 3-15 November 2002, in Santiago, Chile.
Delegates considered 60 proposals and over 60 resolutions on a range
of topics, including, inter alia, strategic and
administrative matters, implementation of the Convention, and
consideration of proposals for amendment of Appendices I and II.
This included the listing of seahorses, basking and whale sharks and
Bigleaf mahogany in Appendix II, and rejection of the proposals to
downlist populations of minke and Bryde’s whales from Appendix I to
Appendix II. A proposal for an Appendix I listing for all African
elephant populations was withdrawn. Instead, the COP decided to
allow three African nations – Botswana, Namibia and South Africa –
to sell a limited and strictly controlled amount of their registered
ivory.

REPORT OF THE MEETING

Participants
attending PC-13 met Tuesday morning, 12 August, at the International
Conference Center in Geneva. Following a closed session of PC
members and Parties, CITES Secretary-General Willem Wijnstekers
opened the meeting, stressing the need for prioritizing the workload
resulting from COP-12. He emphasized that the success of the PC, as
well as the AC and SC, depends on the role of regional
representatives and the support they receive within their own
regions. He also noted the need for the AC and PC to interact and
work together on specific issues in order to move forward in the
same direction. He added that the Secretariat was in the process of
hiring a new scientist and scientific support unit chief. He then
thanked the Swiss Government for hosting the CITES Secretariat in
Geneva for the past 30 years and for offering to host every second
meeting of the AC and PC.

CITES PC Chair
Margarita Clemente (Spain) welcomed delegates, particularly new
regional representatives. Noting the numerous decisions directed to
the PC from COP-12, Chair Clemente stressed the need to prioritize
keys issues, such as significant trade, review of appendices and
heavily traded non-CITES species. She also expressed the need to
work with the AC on issues of mutual interest.

Following brief
introductory remarks, delegates adopted the Rules of Procedure (PC13
Doc. 2 (Rev.1)), with changes agreed in the closed session,
including the need to: submit documents to the Secretariat for PC
consideration at least 60 days before the meeting; allow
intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) to attend closed sessions;
and prepare a summary record 60 days after a meeting. The meeting’s
agenda (PC13 Doc. 3.1 (Rev. 6)) was also adopted, as amended, to
include: addressing master scores under training initiatives;
deleting the evaluation of certification schemes under the item on
production systems involving CITES-listed species; and adding an
item on artificially propagated Tillandsia xerographyca.
Delegates then adopted the meeting’s working programme (PC13 Doc.
3.2) and admission of observers (PC13 Doc. 4).

This report of the
13th meeting of the CITES PC is organized based on the official
meeting agenda.

GENERAL INTRODUCTION
ON THE OPERATION OF THE PLANTS COMMITTEE

Chair Clemente
outlined the operations of the PC (Decision 12.16), highlighting the
PC’s terms of reference (TOR) that include providing guidance to
Parties, acting upon decisions taken by the COP, and submitting
proposals for consideration at the COP. Stressing the role of the
Committee’s regional representatives in coordinating the work of the
PC, she listed the current PC regional representatives as: John
Donaldson (South Africa) and Quentin Luke (Kenya) for Africa;
Enrique Forero (Colombia) and Fátima Mereles (Paraguay) for Central
and South America and the Caribbean; Patricia Dolores Dávila Aranda
(Mexico) for North America; N.P. Singh (India) and Irawati
(Indonesia) for Asia; Margarita Clemente (Spain) and Giuseppe
Frenguelli (Italy) for Europe; and Greg Leach (Australia) for
Oceania. Chair Clemente then outlined decisions taken at COP-12 that
require actions by the PC, including: implementation of the PC work
programme; establishing a list of taxa in Appendix II that are
significantly affected by trade and evaluating such trade; and the
continuation of the Bigleaf Mahogany Working Group. She stressed
that tasks in the Strategic Plan will need to be re-prioritized for
the period leading to COP-13.

REGIONAL REPORTS AND
DIRECTORIES

On Tuesday, 12
August, regional representatives presented their regional reports
(PC12 Docs. 6.1.1 - 6.6.1). Chair Clemente noted that updated
electronic versions of North America’s, Europe’s and Oceania’s
directories could be found on the CITES website, as well as older
versions of directories for Africa, and Central and South America
and the Caribbean.

AFRICA:
An African representative presented his region’s report (PC12 Doc.
6.1.1), stressing that communication and coordination between
Parties remain a problem. He noted little to no regional
capacity-building activity, but added that TRAFFIC had obtained
funding for a capacity-building programme in southern Africa. He
also explained that the second African representative had been
unable to carry out his duties as PC Vice-Chair due to a lack of
financial support, and intended to tender his resignation. PC Chair
Clemente voiced her concern regarding the lack of funding, but did
not accept his resignation. The Secretariat said the issue would be
raised in the SC, and stated that it would support the Vice-Chair in
his duties.

ASIA: Two representatives for Asia – one
speaking for East Asia and the other for West Asia – introduced the
report for the region (PC13 Doc 6.2.1 (Rev.1)), with both citing
communication problems between Parties in the two sub-regions. The
East Asian representative noted that the Management and Scientific
Authorities of Indonesia will conduct a CITES awareness-raising
programme later this year.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH
AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN:
The regional representative presented the report (PC13 Doc. 6.3.1),
highlighting a botanical meeting held in Colombia that informed the
scientific community about CITES activities. He noted that
communication between regional management and scientific authorities
needs to be improved.

EUROPE: The European representative outlined
the report (PC13 Doc. 6.4.1), highlighting many regional activities,
particularly with regard to significant trade. He added that two
regional meetings were being organized to improve communication
between Parties. While communication did not appear to be as weak as
in other regions, he noted communication difficulties in eastern
European countries.

NORTH AMERICA:
In presenting the region’s
report (PC13 Doc. 6.5.1), the North American representative
highlighted Canada’s involvement in non-detrimental findings, work
undertaken by the US on American ginseng and Bigleaf mahogany, and
Mexico’s focus on cactaceae and other succulent plants.

OCEANIA: Oceania’s representative presented the
report (PC13 Doc. 6.6.1), emphasizing that plant species are often
neglected in the region due to a focus on marine issues, but that
endangered orchids in Papua New Guinea and cycads receive attention.
He also highlighted a New Zealand initiative to improve CITES and
plant awareness through community involvement and voluntary
compliance.

In the ensuing
discussion, delegates addressed communication problems and lack of
Party participation. The Netherlands noted varying levels of
participation between different Parties and said that the PC can
only function with proper input from everyone. Others stressed the
need for more local involvement as a means to improve communication,
and for financial support to carry out certain PC tasks. Chair
Clemente established a contact group to address ways of improving
regional communication.

On Friday, 15
August, Chris Schürmann(the Netherlands), Chair of the
contact group on improving regional communication, reported on the
group’s findings, suggesting, inter alia, the need for:
manuals for regional representatives and Parties to help inform each
of their duties; fixed communication periods in which parties have
information exchanges; alternative regional representatives to play
a more important role; more informal exchanges between regional
Parties; and NGOs to assist in improving communication between
Parties in the region.

REPORT OF THE
STANDING COMMITTEE

On Tuesday, 12
August, Chair Clemente presented the outcome of the 49th meeting of
the SC, held in April 2003. She highlighted discussions on how to
tackle Decision 12.97 regarding the review of criteria, and on how
to involve countries of origin in the review of the appendices. The
Secretariat then introduced a document on the SC’s working group on
technical implementation issues (AC19 Doc. 7.1), noting that the PC
is invited to provide recommendations on how it could assist the SC
in offering advice on such issues. Introducing a document on the
SC’s export quota working group (AC19 Doc. 7.2), he said that,
according to a COP decision, the group would focus on the practical
aspects of managing quota permits and reporting, and that the PC
Chair is invited to participate.

TECHNICAL
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

On Thursday, 14
August, delegates addressed technical implementation issues. The
Secretariat suggested forming a group of individuals with experience
on implementation, enforcement and management issues to provide
input to the SC. Chair Clemente then established a "Friends of the
Chair" group to identify topics in which the PC could contribute, so
that the SC’s working group Chair could be informed. The group will
work intersessionally and report back to the Chair.

EXPORT QUOTA WORKING
GROUP

On Thursday, 14
August, delegates addressed the document on the export quota working
group. The Secretariat said that the SC had agreed to the TOR of the
working group and its composition. He noted that the working group
is focused on management and technical aspects related to export
quotas. AC Chair Thomas Althaus (Switzerland), who attended the PC
meeting for two days, said that he could not participate in the SC
working group, but asked to be kept informed on its progress.

PC WORKING PROGRAMME
UNTIL COP-13

On Tuesday, 12
August, the Secretariat introduced the working programme for the PC
until COP-13 (PC13 Doc 8.1), which lists resolutions and decisions
directed or related to the PC.He stated that the decision on
the Bigleaf Mahogany Working Group is not included as it is not
directed to the PC, and indicated that the working group plans to
reconvene in October 2003 in Brazil, before the Appendix II Bigleaf
mahogany listing comes into effect the following month. The
Committee established two working groups to consider the resolutions
and decisions directed to it. The first working group was asked to
prioritize the PC work programme. The second working group looked at
ways of clarifying technical language on registration of nurseries
exporting artificially propagated specimens of Appendix I species
(Resolution Conf. 9.19) and on regulation of trade in plants (Conf.
11.11), to make it more understandable to customs authorities and
other stakeholders.

On Friday, 15
August, Luke Quentin (Kenya), Chair of the working group on
prioritizing the PC work programme, presented the group’s decision
to rank resolutions and decisions directed to the PC until COP-13
based on high, medium and low priority. Decisions identified as high
priority include, inter alia: joint regional meetings; review
of significant trade in specimens of Appendix II species and its
evaluation; review of the criteria for amendment of Appendices I and
II; and annotations for medicinal plants in the Appendices.

On Friday, 15
August, Javier Alvarez (US), Chair of the working group on reviewing
the language and terms used in Resolutions Conf. 9.19 and Conf.
11.11, noted that the group had convened briefly to establish the
TOR for the review. He said that a request will be sent to members
for suggestions and a draft prepared for revision and consideration
by PC-14.

FOLLOW-UP OF COP-12
DECISIONS

HARPAGOPHYTUMSPP.: On Wednesday, 13 August, participants discussed
implementation of decisions relating to Harpagophytum spp.
(Devil’s Claw) (PC13 Doc. 9.1.1) and implementation of decisions in
Namibia (PC13 Doc. 9.1.2). The Secretariat outlined COP-12 decisions
and progress with implementation, noting that, as a non-CITES listed
species, Harpagophytum spp. may not be a major priority for
the PC and resources to address the issue may not be available.
Namibia presented a national Devil’s Claw situation analysis, which
included resource, socioeconomic and market surveys of the species.
She reported on increasing exports and sustainability concerns, and
indicated that national harvesting quotas will be set.

The representative
of Africa noted that there seemed to be greater activity for Devil’s
Claw than for listed species in southern Africa and, with the
International Wildlife Management Consortium-World Conservation
Trust (IWMC), stated that there was a misleading press release on
the CITES website about the status of the species. Germany commended
Namibia’s efforts and noted that a sustainable system can be
achieved with or without a CITES listing. Noting that Germany is the
only importer, he underscored support for projects in Namibia on a
national survey and on sustainable collection. He stressed loss of
income for African collectors if cultivation efforts undertaken by
German industry succeed and highlighted contacts with a company
willing to market the wild material. TRAFFIC said the importing and
consumer side was not transparent, with little information on import
amounts, and agreed with Germany that cultivation can adversely
affect the livelihood of local people in Namibia. The European
Commission (EC) noted regulatory developments to monitor import
levels in the European Union. Fauna and Flora International
announced a study on trade in Devil’s Claw that looks at increasing
gains for harvesters. Austria highlighted the issue as an example of
where CITES can collaborate with the CBD. Delegates agreed to a
suggestion by Chair Clemente that the case be used as a model, as it
incorporates involvement of the range States and the consumer
country, as well as cooperation of regional representatives and
industry.

GUAIACUMSPP.: On Wednesday, 13 August, the Secretariat introduced a
document on Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae or tree of life)
(PC13 Doc. 9.2), recalling the COP-12 decision to include
Guaiacum in Appendix II and requesting the PC to assess its
status in the wild and its trade status. Mexico noted its work on a
Guaiacum study project (PC13 Inf. 2) and Cuba requested
financial support for a study project it intends to conduct (PC13
Inf. 7). Mexico added that its project would help examine the
feasibility of harvesting wild species. He noted, inter alia,
that: the project is co-financed by different national and foreign
institutions; specimen records and potential distribution maps have
been produced; and further studies are needed on wood anatomy to
enable their identification and the improvement of control measures.
Mexico stressed its willingness to exchange information with Cuba.
The Secretariat said the Mexican study could serve as a pilot study
for other range States.

AQUILARIASPP.: On Wednesday, 13 August, the Secretariat introduced the
progress report on Aquilaria spp. (agarwood) (PC13 Doc. 9.3),
containing information on progress achieved on six related COP-12
decisions, as well as the status assessment of agarwood producing
species for improved conservation and non-detrimental use (PC13 Inf.
3). TRAFFIC introduced the status assessment, with a number of
actions to be undertaken, including: collecting up-to-date
information; assessing the species’ global status; undertaking field
assessments on species with limited information; and finalizing
guidelines for standard monitoring of the status of Aquilaria
malaccensis. He added that the budget only covers baseline
fieldwork in Indonesia, and that additional funds are required to
conduct fieldwork in Malaysia. He also cited research undertaken by
TRAFFIC and WWF-South Pacific on the economic assessment of agarwood
trade in Papua New Guinea. A representative of Oceania stressed the
need for action, noting that the quantity and quality of material
coming from Papua New Guinea is declining, and called for a
discussion on a potential Appendix III listing for the Papua New
Guinea species. He suggested that an agarwood conference to be held
in Vietnam later in 2003 would provide an excellent opportunity for
CITES’ promotion and involvement in agarwood trade.

REVIEW OF RESOLUTION
CONF. 9.24: On Wednesday, 13
August, Chair Clemente introduced: Decision 12.97 on the review of
criteria for amendment of Appendices I and II (PC13 Doc. 9.4.1); the
text of the Chair of Committee I Working Group on Criteria (CWG12)
(PC13 Doc. 9.4.2); and a proposal of the TOR and schedule on the
issue (PC13 Doc. 9.4.3), including a proposed limited list of taxa
for the taxonomic review (Annex I). Chair Clemente recalled that
Decision 12.97: requests the AC and PC to coordinate an open and
broadly consultative process to consider further revision of the
CWG12 Chair’s text; and indicates that the process should include
reviews of selected taxa to ensure that the applicability of the
criteria and guidelines to a broad array of taxa is assessed. She
also noted that the SC requested the AC and PC to submit a progress
report on the review of criteria at its next meeting, focusing on
finalizing the CWG12 Chair’s text, and to apply the criteria on a
limited number of taxa.

On the proposed TOR,
Chair Clemente proposed first working on the annexed list of taxa,
followed by further revision of the CWG12 Chair’s text. She
indicated that the list represents a range of major taxonomic groups
which are geographically varied, have diverse life histories, are
involved in trade to different degrees and forms, and whose biology,
distribution, conservation status, population trends, and trade are
well documented. She stressed that controversial or "emotionally
loaded" species should be excluded from the list.

Chair Clemente added
that the review of selected taxa would be conducted intersessionally
until the next PC meeting, and suggested holding a one-day joint
meeting of the PC and AC in February 2004 to analyze the results of
the taxonomic reviews and to discuss revisions to the CWG12 Chair’s
text. She said that, for this process, one or two PC Parties should
conduct a coordinated review of a single species, and an
intersessional working group would work towards completing the
taxonomic review. She suggested that, from February to April 2004,
Parties should submit comments on proposed changes to the CWG12
Chair’s text, with a final report being produced in April 2004.

Several Parties,
including Australia, the US and Mexico, said the AC and PC should
follow similar processes. AC Chair Althaus noted that the AC is
likely to further revise the CWG12 Chair’s text, and then review the
applicability of criteria, and not vice versa, as suggested by Chair
Clemente. The UK, supported by Australia, the US, Mexico, the EC and
the World Conservation Union (IUCN) said that the process suggested
by Chair Clemente was more efficient. Delegates adopted the
mechanism as proposed by Chair Clemente, who said she would
recommend to the AC to follow the same process. Some Parties then
volunteered to conduct coordinated reviews of species, and a working
group was formed to agree upon a timetable and list of species for
the taxonomic review (PC13 Doc. 9.4.3).

On Friday, 15
August, Javier Alvarez (US), Chair of the working group, presented
the results of the working group on the proposed TOR and schedule
for the criteria review. Delegates discussed the list of taxa and
selected species, concluding that nominated participants will test
the following listed species:

snowdrops (Galanthus
elwesii) from the Amaryllidaceaetaxa (bulbs);

American ginseng (Panax
quinquefolius) from the Araliaceae taxa (rhizomes);

The list also
includes the non-listed species, aspen (Populus tremuloides)
from the Salicaceae taxa (temperate timber – clonal reproduction),
and Western yew (Taxus brevifolia) from the Taxaceae taxa
(temperate timber medicinal), as well as the non-listed fungi morel
fungus (Morchella sp.).

On the proposed time
schedule, the US suggested that the taxonomic reviews be completed
by the end of October 2003; that a table on the reviews’ results be
compiled and posted on the CITES website by 5 December 2003; and
that Parties provide comments on the table through their regional
representatives by PC-14. He said that a joint PC and AC working
group could be established to analyze the results of the taxonomic
reviews, with the aim of drafting a revised resolution. The draft
resolution would then be submitted at the next SC meeting and posted
on the website in accordance with the COP deadline.

Delegates agreed to
the proposed schedule, stressing the need for a broadly consultative
process and suggesting ways to ensure that all Parties are given the
opportunity to submit comments. They stated that the approved
document would be communicated to the AC and added that Chair
Clemente and the Secretariat would coordinate the process.

TECHNICAL PROPOSALS
FROM COP-12

DEFINITIONS OF THE
TECHNICAL TERMS USED IN THE ANNOTATIONS OF MEDICINAL PLANTS: On Wednesday, 13 August, Germany
presented on definitions of the technical terms used in annotations
of CITES-listed medicinal plants. He noted that the Convention makes
a clear distinction between entire plants and animals, and their
specimens and derivatives, but that there are many Appendix
II-listed plants without annotations, such as Madagascar palm
species, that cause interpretation problems. He called for: a
decision on what parts and derivatives need to be controlled to
ensure that trade is at sustainable levels; identification of the
major trade commodities of CITES medicinal plants; clearer
definitions; and a COP amendment proposal with new annotations for
parts and derivatives for CITES medicinal plants.

IWMC noted that many
Appendix II-listed plant species are not annotated to include parts
and derivatives and that these annotations should be revised. The EC
cautioned that any revised guidelines could broaden the scope of COP
decisions. TRAFFIC noted slow progress on finalizing annotations,
adding that important information was missing from annotations
regarding medicinal plants. He said that TRAFFIC could be contracted
to work on clarifying the definitions. Austria stressed the need for
focused work on definitions and harmonization of annotations of
medicinal plants. The EC added that definitions need more
elaboration for potential application in a court of law. Chair
Clemente proposed clarifying annotations for COP-13, and agreed that
TRAFFIC or IUCN could be contracted to clarify annotations on CITES
medicinal plants, with a PC working group to supervise their work.

DETERMINATION OF THE
DEFINITION OF SWIETENIA MACROPHYLLA PLYWOOD:
On Wednesday, 13 August, the US presented its proposal on the
determination of the definition of Swietenia
macrophylla (Bigleaf mahogany) (PC12 Doc. 10.4), recommending the
use of an interim definition based on the World Customs
Organization’s tariff classifications, which define plywood as
"consisting of three or more sheets of wood glued and pressed one on
the other and generally disposed so that the grains of successive
layers are at an angle." The US also proposed that plywood
containing Swieteniamacrophylla be measured in square
meters for effective monitoring. The Secretariat directed delegates
to an information document (PC13 Inf. 1) that indicated that the
thickness of each individual ply would not exceed six millimeters.
On Friday, 15 August, delegates agreed to use the US proposal as an
interim definition with the understanding that modifications can be
discussed at an upcoming meeting of the Bigleaf Mahogany working
group.

ARTIFICIALLY
PROPAGATED ORCHID HYBRIDS:
On Wednesday, 13 August, Chair Clemente opened discussion on
artificially propagated orchid hybrids, noting an annotation adopted
at COP-12, which excludes hybrids within the genus Phalaenopsis
from CITES provisions. She highlighted the annotation’s complexity
and the burden of having thousands of artificially propagated
orchids in the appendices. Mexico recalled that the orchids family
was listed to avoid complications at border points, and suggested
waiting for the identification material currently under preparation
by the US and the American Orchid Society. The Secretariat drew
attention to the document on artificially propagated plants traded
in large quantities (PC13 Doc. 13.2), which contains references to
orchids, and agreed that time is required to evaluate the
exemption’s effects.

SPECIES PROPOSALS
FOR COP-13

ANNOTATIONS FOR
CERTAIN ARTIFICIALLY PROPAGATED ORCHID HYBRIDS: On Wednesday, 13 August, Switzerland
introduced its proposal (PC13 Doc. 11.1), aimed at complementing the
annotation to exempt artificially propagated orchids within the
genus Phalaenopsis, which was adopted at COP-12. The proposal
calls for exempting all artificially propagated orchid hybrids of
Orchidaceae spp. in Appendix II when the specimens are
flowering, professionally processed for commercial retail sale, and
show no similarity to wild-collected specimens of botanical species.

Belgium supported
the Swiss proposal, stating that there is no reason to protect
hybrids. The EC said the proposal would reduce the administrative
burden associated with hybrid orchids, but suggested its
consideration by enforcement authorities. The US said it might
tentatively support the proposal, but suggested that exemptions
should apply to specimens that are traded in high volume. Mexico
suggested waiting for the results from exempting the Phalaenopsis
genus before further discussion. China expressed concern that the
exemption of artificially propagated hybrids may lead to increased
smuggling of wild species. TRAFFIC also expressed concerns, citing
insufficient information on enforcement data. Chair Clemente
encouraged Switzerland to incorporate some of the Parties’ comments.

SPECIMENS IN
INTERNATIONAL TRADE UNDER EXEMPTION: On Thursday, 14 August, Switzerland
introduced its proposal on specimens in international trade under
exemption (PC13 Doc. 11.2). He recalled that several exemptions
allow international trade without permits in live plant specimens of
CITES-listed species, but that such specimens may be re-exported and
cease to qualify for the previous exemption. Switzerland proposed
including language in Resolution 11.11 on plant trade emphasizing
that the country of origin of specimens that legally entered
international trade under exemption shall be the country in which
the specimen ceased to qualify for exemption. The UK, Mexico,
Germany, Austria and the EC noted that the proposed wording may
still allow detrimental trade, and Switzerland agreed to revise its
proposal in time for PC-14.

PROPOSALS TO INCLUDE
CAESALPINIA ECHINATA IN THE APPENDICES:
On Thursday, 14 August, Germany informed delegates that they were
considering proposing an Appendix II listing for Caesalpinia
echinata (Pernambuco or Pau Brazil). He said that the German
government is consulting with the Brazilian authorities and that an
official proposal may be submitted for discussion at the next PC
meeting. The Confederation of Craftsmen and Users of Natural
Resources (Comurnat) introduced the International Pernambuco
Conservation Initiative (PC13 Inf. 4), highlighting, inter alia:
species’ significance for bow makers and string instrument makers;
users’ involvement in Caesalpinia echinata conservation; the
initiative’s aim to implement a sustainable use strategy; and the
development of a partnership between professionals and Brazilian
authorities, resulting in funding a five-year action plan in Brazil.

Switzerland,
supported by Chile, the US and the IWMC, said Caesalpinia
echinata would not meet the criteria for an Appendix II listing
if threats to the species are local rather than related to
international trade. The US stressed the need for information on the
proportion of export trade in relation to domestic use, and recalled
the annotation problems associated with Brazilian rosewood, a listed
wood used in musical instruments. Malaysia highlighted the
importance of consulting the Brazilian authorities, while Chile
noted the sensitivity of dealing with timber species in CITES.

PLANT COMMITTEE
STATEMENT

On Thursday, 14
August, the representative for Oceania read a statement expressing
the PC’s concern over the COP-12 approval of proposals to amend the
Appendices that were not based on the best scientific information
available and that were not presented in the format provided for in
Resolution Conf. 9.24. He urged Parties to provide proposals based
on the most reliable scientific data available and to submit draft
proposals to the AC and PC in a timely manner to allow for
additional comments.

SIGNIFICANT TRADE IN
PLANTS

On Thursday, 14
August, the Secretariat reported to delegates on the revised Review
of Significant Trade (RST) process, noting that the review process
had evolved to assure that the provisions of CITES Article IV on the
regulation of trade in specimens of Appendix II-listed species are
being met and that trade in Appendix-II listed species is
sustainable and not detrimental to its survival. He said that both
the PC and AC have a mandate to identify Appendix II-listed species
that are subject to significant levels of trade, and noted the
following species that were selected for review at PC-11 and PC-12:
Cycads, Pericopsis elata, Aquilaria malaccensis,
Aloe, and Prunus africana. He added that trade in plants
from Madagascar was the first country-based RST and that if it
proved to be a more efficient mechanism than the taxa-based
approach, a standardized approach for the process could be
developed.

EVALUATION OF THE
REVIEW OF SIGNIFICANT TRADE:
On Thursday, 14 August, the Secretariat introduced a document on the
evaluation of the RST (PC13 Doc. 12.1), together with an annexed
draft of the RST’s TOR. He noted that Decision 12.75 requests the AC
and PC to draft the TOR for an evaluation to be considered at
COP-13, and that the evaluation should be prepared prior to COP-14.
He highlighted the RST’s contribution by pointing out that only a
few species have been transferred from Appendix II to I. Oceania,
supported by the Netherlands, stated that the TOR should assess the
possible effects of the RST’s measures not only on CITES-listed
species, but also on affected non-CITES species. Chair Clemente
mentioned a lack of reliable data on non-listed species, and the
Secretariat pointed to budget implications if the scope of the
evaluation was broadened. A working group was formed to consider the
draft TOR.

On Friday, 15
August, Javier Alvarez (US), Chair of the TOR working group,
reported that the group had found the evaluation premature because
the RST is still in an early phase, and the country-wide review
process is still new. He stated that, although the TOR should be
ready in time for COP-13, the evaluation should only be carried out
after COP-14. Regarding the TOR, the group noted that: assessing the
effects on non-CITES species still needs to be addressed; the PC and
AC should play more direct roles in overseeing the process; range
States should play a greater role; plants should be treated in a
similar way to animals in species selection; and the AC and PC need
to raise funds for the evaluation. The TOR will be revised in time
for consideration at COP-13. Delegates decided that the UK will
represent the PC in the coordination process between the AC and PC
on preparing a revised draft TOR.

IMPLEMENTATION OF
RESOLUTION CONF. 12.8: Trade in Plants from Madagascar: On Friday, 15 August, the Secretariat
introduced an update on Madagascar’s RST (PC13 Doc. 12.2.1). He
outlined the key steps of the RST, including a consultation process
with Madagascar and a review of information of trade in Appendix II
plants and animals from the country. He noted that recommendations
are being prepared and that the implementation phase, including an
evaluation and monitoring exercise, will commence after the
recommendations have been prepared. He reported on workshops
organized in the country and region, and outlined the elements of an
action plan to be ready soon. The Secretariat indicated that, in
spite of recent political strife in Madagascar, there had been
considerable support from local authorities and stakeholders.

The UK presented a
report on the RST of plants in Madagascar, conducted by the Kew
Royal Botanic Gardens (PC13 Inf. 8). He said the project aimed to
carry out an analysis of trade in plant species from Madagascar and
to provide recommendations on the sustainable trade in
wild-collected plants and on the commercial propagation of species
with horticultural interest. The US praised the project of the RST
in Madagascar for its holistic approach, and requested information
on the suspension of the issuance of permits for plants and animals.
The Secretariat explained that no export permits were issued at the
time the document was drafted, and Austria added that the ban was
lifted in October 2002. The African representative observed that no
effort was made to include regional representatives in the RST-related
meetings in Madagascar. Austria highlighted the collaborative work
of Austrian and Malagasy institutions on CBD aspects, including the
assessment of population data of native orchids.

Cycads:
On Friday, 15 August, the Secretariat introduced a document on
cycads, including the annexed interim report on CITES RST of Cycads,
prepared by TRAFFIC East/Southern Africa (PC13 Doc. 12.2.2). The
IUCN-Species Survival Commission (SSC) Cycads Specialists Group
introduced TRAFFIC’s interim report, noting the progress of planned
activities and the work programme. He drew attention to a good
response from range States and stated that the report will be
available for PC-14 consideration.

TAXA FOR REVIEW: Prunus Africana: On
Friday, 15 August, the Secretariat introduced the document on Prunus
africana (red stinkwood) which will be reviewed under the RST
(PC13 Doc. 12.2.3.1). He said that a suitable candidate will be
contracted in the near future to conduct the review and that the
Secretariat will provide a progress report at PC-14.

Aquilaria
malaccensis: On Friday,
15 August, the Secretariat introduced the document on Aquilaria
malaccensis (agarwood) (PC13 Doc. 12.2.3.2). TRAFFIC Southeast
Asia, which has been contracted to conduct the research phase of the
review, said it would provide a report in September 2003.

Pericopsis elata:
On Friday, 15 August, the Secretariat introduced the document on
Pericopsis elata (African teak) (PC13 Doc. 12.2.3.3), stating
that Fauna and Flora International has been contracted to conduct
the research phase of the review. Fauna and Flora International
outlined its progress and noted that it would provide a report by
September 2003.

Aloe Species from East Africa Used as
Extract: On Friday, 15 August, the Secretariat introduced the
document on Aloe species from East Africa used as extracts
(PC13 Doc. 12.2.3.4), stating that Fauna and Flora International has
been contracted to conduct the research phase of the review. Fauna
and Flora International reported on progress and indicated that it
would provide a report by September 2003.

REVIEW OF THE
APPENDICES

TIMBER SPECIES AND
ARTIFICIALLY PROPAGATED PLANTS TRADED IN LARGE QUANTITIES: On Friday, 15 August, the
Secretariat introduced documents on timber species (PC13 Doc.13.1)
and artificially propagated plants traded in large quantities (PC12
Doc. 13.2), noting that Decision 12.11 requests the PC to continue
the review of Appendices with priorities on both. Regarding timber
species, he said that Aquilaria malaccensis, Prunus
Africana and Pericopsis elata are included in the RST.
Chair Clemente noted that Parties are encouraged to work further on
these issues, but added that the PC will not act because a low
priority has been attributed to them, new review criteria will be
developed after COP-13, and the AC and PC are currently developing
more harmonized evaluation processes for reviews.

PERIODIC REVIEW OF
ANIMAL AND PLANT TAXA IN THE APPENDICES: On Thursday, 14 August, delegates
addressed the periodic review of animal and plant taxa in the
Appendices (PC13 Doc. 13.3). The US outlined Decision 12.96
requesting the SC to develop mechanisms to involve range States in
the periodic review. He noted the SC recommendation requesting the
AC and PC to share their experience and establish a schedule for the
review, and to list the species they propose to review between
COP-13 and COP-15. He indicated that a contact group established by
the AC is working on guidelines for the review of Appendices, and
highlighted the aim of information sharing between the AC and the PC
on the adoption of standard guidelines, the list of taxa to be
reviewed, and the schedule for completion of those reviews. Chair
Clemente called for the establishment of a review mechanism and
suggested focusing on drafting guidelines by enriching the AC’s
contact group with PC participants. AC Chair Althaus urged range
States to be involved from an early stage and recalled
time-consuming COP proposals that had to be withdrawn because of
lack of involvement.

Delegates agreed to
nominate three PC participants for the contact group on the review
of the Appendices. Chair Clemente noted that if the guidelines are
finalized by the next PC meeting, then they could be applied
immediately to establish the list of species for review.

On Friday, 15
August, the US, Chair of the contact group on the review of
Appendices, said that the group would work intersessionally to draft
common guidelines that could be used by both the PC and AC when
reviewing the Appendices.

REVIEW OF HEAVILY
TRADED NON-CITES SPECIES

On Friday, 15
August, the Secretariat introduced the review of heavily traded
non-CITES species (PC13 Doc. 14.1). Noting that this is a high
priority issue, he said the PC may wish to consider whether it
should formalize a process for such a review. He suggested that, if
it decided to do this, the PC could develop a review process to
identify "heavily traded" species. The PC took note of the document
and Chair Clemente invited Parties to submit proposals for
consideration at PC-14.

EVALUATION OF TREE
SPECIES: On Friday, 15
August, the Netherlands reported on developments concerning
proposals to amend the Appendices, on the basis of the contribution
to an evaluation of tree species using the new CITES listing
criteria published by their Management Authority in 1998 (PC13 Doc.
14.2 (Rev. 1)). He outlined the conclusions of a meeting held on the
topic in 2003, including the need for: an integrated approach to
tree conservation; stakeholder participation; identification of
problems and solutions on a regional basis; awareness raising on
CITES applications; improvement of CITES implementation; and
organization of regional workshops. The Oceania representative
suggested linking the process to regional capacity-building
workshops. The US offered assistance in organizing a workshop.

PROJECT REPORT ON
DALBERGIA MELANOXYLON:
Fauna and Flora International presented its report on Dalbergia
melanoxylon (African blackwood), noting that commercial trade of
the species from the two major exporting countries, Tanzania and
Mozambique, is estimated annually at 150-200 cubic meters, and that
based on these statistics, international trade did not represent a
threat to the species. She added that there was no need for a CITES
listing at this time. An African representative said that the report
did not include reliable figures of remaining stocks and noted that
the rate of use could be unsustainable.

CHECKLISTS AND
NOMENCLATURE PROGRESS REPORT

On Friday, 15
August, the UK introduced a progress report on checklists and
nomenclature (PC13 Doc. 15.1). He outlined: COP adoption of the
UNEP-WCMC Checklist of CITES species and its updates; the issue of
whether to retain individual taxon-based checklists, and the
question of revising their formats; budget restrictions; and the
need for expert assistance, particularly from range States.

UNEP-WCMC informed
participants that its 2003 checklist is available. Mexico and others
called for a clear set of working practices for the Nomenclature
Committee. The representative for Asia stressed that the taxon-based
checklists should continue, as they include additional information.
Switzerland and Mexico expressed their concerns over the adoption of
the UNEP-WCMC checklist. The US advocated returning to the old
system of rolling resolutions. The UK noticed that the PC had not
recommended adoption of the UNEP-WCMC checklist. Austria said taxon-based
checklists are best suited for plants. Delegates questioned the
status of the taxon-based checklists in relation to the UNEP-WCMC
one. The Secretariat noted that the UNEP-WCMC checklist and updates
are accepted as the standard nomenclature. The EC said the status of
both checklists should be equal. Chair Clemente confirmed the PC’s
support for the taxon-based checklists and invited Parties to work
on Resolution Conf. 12.11 on adoption of the UNEP-WCMC checklist.
The issue will be reconsidered at PC-14.

CHECKLIST OF
SUCCULENT EUPHORBIA: On
Friday, 15 August, Germany announced the new edition of the
Checklist of Succulent Euphorbia to be published later this year.

CHECKLIST OF
MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS: On Friday, 15 August, Germany announced
that the new edition of the Checklist of medicinal and aromatic
plants will be published later this year.

PREPARATION OF CITES
CHECKLIST FOR BULBOPHYLLUM (ORCHIDACEAE): On Friday, 15 August, Austria reported
on its preparation of a CITES checklist for Bulbophyllum. He stated
that Austria intends to present a draft manuscript at COP-13.

ID MANUAL PROGRESS
REPORT

On Friday, 15
August, the Secretariat introduced a progress report on the
production of the Identification Manual (PC13 Doc. 17). He noted
that a database on the ID Manual has been created, and that it is
helpful to Parties when they prepare proposals to list species.
Switzerland reported progress on its contribution to the ID manual
regarding the genus Pachypodium, and the Appendix I listed species
of Aloe and Euphorbia.

GUIDELINES FOR THE
TRANSPORT OF LIVE PLANTS

On Friday, 15
August, Canada announced the availability of new guidelines for the
transport of live plants, published by the International Air
Transport Association (IATA).

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN
IN SITU CONSERVATION AND EX SITU PRODUCTION OF PLANTS AND PLANT
PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

On Thursday, 14
August, delegates jointly considered documents on: the relationship
between in situ conservation and ex situ production of
plants, including an annexed draft notification to Parties (PC13
Doc. 19); plant production systems (PC13 Doc. 25.1); and production
systems involving CITES-listed species and their impact on wild
populations (PC13 Inf. 6).

On the relationship
between in situ conservation and ex situ production,
the Secretariat stressed that Decision 12.11 requests the PC to
analyze the relationship before COP-13. He added that the
Secretariat had already circulated a draft notification to Parties
in 2001, but received little response. He then requested Parties to
comment on the new annexed draft notification, and noted that a
similar notification will be circulated to the AC.

Regarding plant
production systems, he highlighted that the IUCN/SSC Wildlife Trade
Programme has been contracted to work further on the issue. IUCN
introduced the document on production systems involving CITES-listed
species, stressing that they form a continuum from wild production
to closed cycle domesticated systems, and that varieties of
production systems need to be grouped into clearly-defined
categories for CITES’ purposes.

Delegates noted a
potential overlap and the need for collaboration with the CBD, as
well as a possible low response rate to the new draft notification.
Chair Clemente added that the issue has been given low priority by
the working group on PC work programme prioritization. Delegates
decided not to circulate the draft notification, but instead to
circulate the full IUCN/SSC report to PC members, from which case
studies on different production systems could be extracted. Parties
could comment on the report and further discuss the issue at PC-14.

ARTIFICIALLY
PROPAGATED TILLANDSIA XEROGRAPHYCA

On Friday, 15
August, the Netherlands introduced an information document on
imports of artificially propagated Tillandsia xerographyca
from Guatemala and the Philippines (PC13 Inf. 5), concluding that no
import permits should be issued for artificially propagated
Tillandsia xerographyca and that detailed information is
required about the propagation methods and procedures.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY
AND TRADERS TO PROMOTE PROJECTS ON SUSTAINABLE USE

On Friday, 15
August, the Chair noted that this issue was discussed in Plenary and
working group discussions and cited Harpagophytum and
Caesalpinia echinata as two examples that could be useful models
for sustainable use projects that link industry and traders. She
said that this issue would be taken up again at the next PC.

ROLE OF APPENDIX II

On Friday, 15
August, Chair Clemente introduced the agenda item on the role of
Appendix II, briefly noting the importance of presenting the role of
Appendix II in a positive light. She said examples would be sought
at PC-14.

GLOBAL STRATEGY FOR
PLANT CONSERVATION

On Thursday, 14
August, delegates heard a presentation by IUCN on the CBD’s Global
Strategy for Plant Conservation (PC13 Inf. 11). Noting that the
Strategy raises plants’ profile, IUCN outlined the Strategy’s 16
targets and highlighted the opportunity for synergies between CITES
and the CBD. She focused on Target 11, which states that no species
of wild flora should be endangered by international trade by 2010,
adding that CITES is considered to be the lead organization in the
implementation of this goal. Chair Clemente set up a working group
to assist IUCN in considering the extent to which CITES has and will
contribute to this goal.

On Friday, 15
August, Wendy Strahm (IUCN), Chair of the working group, presented
the group’s results. She noted that CITES was not only the lead
organization in achieving Target 11, but that it is contributing to
at least 10 of the 16 targets. She suggested producing a discussion
paper on CITES activities to be presented to PC-14 and the SC. On
links with the CBD, she said the PC Chair should remain the main
contact person, and that funding for periodic regional reviews and
collaboration should be sought from the Global Environment Facility.

TRAINING INITIATIVES

On Friday, 15
August, the UK presented a progress report on the standard slide
package (PC13 Doc. 24), drawing attention to the updated version of
its users guide on CITES and Plants, and noting that new
publications, CITES and Succulents, and CBD for Botanists,
are available in CD-ROM format. He called on delegates producing
CITES capacity-building material for plants to participate in an
informal e-mail contact group.

TIME AND VENUE OF
THE 14TH PLANTS COMMITTEE MEETING

Namibia offered to
host PC-14, which is scheduled for February 2004.

CLOSING REMARKS

Closing the meeting,
Chair Clemente thanked participants, CITES Secretariat and staff.
CITES Secretary-General Wijnstekers congratulated the PC for
progress made and the meeting came to a close at 5:25 pm.

A BRIEF ANALYSIS OF
PC-13

With glaciers
melting and plants wilting under the abnormally hot temperatures
that have been plaguing Europe this summer, delegates to the 13th
meeting of the CITES Plants Committee (PC-13) met in the comfort of
an air-conditioned conference center in Geneva to discuss the threat
of plants species from something even more troubling than the
weather ï¿½ international trade. With less than a week to conduct
their work, participants sought to address the numerous proposals
and decisions that emerged late in 2002 from CITES COP-12, as well
as to look ahead to other issues to be considered at the next PC in
February 2004, and at COP-13 in October 2004. As with past meetings,
the Committee worked in a friendly and non-divisive atmosphere to
cover as much ground as possible given an agenda weighed down with
numerous procedural items.

PRIORITIZE AND
ECONOMIZE

"Prioritization is
the key to success." PC Chair Margarita Clemente reiterated this
mantra throughout the meeting and even went a step further by
establishing a working group to prioritize the Committeeï¿½s working
programme for the period leading to COP-13. Of the numerous
decisions and resolutions directed to the PC, the working group
ranked the review of significant trade in specimens of Appendix II
species and its evaluation, the review of the criteria for amendment
of Appendices I and II, and annotations for medicinal plants in the
Appendices, as high priorities. Reacting to the ranking, one
delegate expressed concern that the issues considered to be a low
priority may easily be "swept under the carpet," while others felt
that due to the Committeeï¿½s heavy workload they had to start
somewhere and readily agreed on the chosen priorities. Given the
short time to the next PC meeting and COP, and with the lack of
available resources, even carrying out the work associated with the
high priority issues will be a difficult challenge.

Although a 6% budget
increase for CITES was approved at COP-12, it appears unlikely to be
enough to assist with the Conventionï¿½s implementation, let alone
activities of its scientific bodies. While apologizing for raising
the money issue, one delegate warned that funding was critical in
determining what work could be undertaken. Such a statement was
validated when the African regional representative attempted to
tender his resignation as PC Vice-Chair due to lack of financial
support to carry out his duties. Although his resignation was
rejected with reassurances that the CITES Secretary-General would
assist in addressing this matter, it represented a more systemic
problem facing the Committee ï¿½ the lack of full participation of
developing countries in the process. So far, the majority of PC
Chairs have alternated between representatives from Europe and North
America.

COP-12 DECISIONSï¿½

Despite the
financial shortcomings threatening to restrict the work of the PC,
delegates pointed to a number of success stories during the meeting
as proof that the Committee can still carry out its mandate as a
scientific advisory body. One issue flagged as a major
accomplishment was agreement on a process for the periodic review of
the Appendices. This is an issue that many believe could provide
good common ground to improve cooperation and coordination between
the PC and AC. Although a COP-12 proposal to merge the two
committees together was rejected, many felt that there is still a
need for each Committee to know what the other is doing, so as to
ensure that they do not go in completely different directions. Many
commended the fact that the AC Chair attended some of the PC
deliberations and that the PC Chair will do the same at the upcoming
AC meeting. But, some felt that this does not go far enough and that
perhaps there should be another joint meeting, like the one that
took place in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, in December 2000, to
continue discussions on overlapping issues.

ï¿½COP-13 PROPOSALS

While much attention
was spent on follow-up to COP-12 decisions, there seemed to be
little discussion on species proposals for COP-13. Only Germany
"tested the waters" by exploring the possibility of including
Caesalpina echinata (Pernambuco or Pau Brazil) in the
Appendices. This is significant, as Caesalpina echinata is a
timber species, an issue still quite sensitive in CITES, even though
Bigleaf mahogany was listed under Appendix II at the last COP. Much
consultation still has to be undertaken, particularly with the range
States, to determine if this species will meet the criteria for an
Appendix II listing. The discussion represents a possible future
trend towards greater openness in discussing more endangered timber
species. Other timber species, as well as new plant species
proposals, are most likely to be considered at PC-14, prior to the
next COP.

AS IF 25,000 LISTED
PLANT SPECIES WERENï¿½T ENOUGH

In spite of already
having over 25,000 plants species listed under the CITES Appendices,
delegates still found time to give much attention to non-CITES
listed species. One participant actually remarked that he wished
that the amount of attention and enthusiasm given to non-CITES
species would be given to the ones already on the Appendices.
Harpagophytum (Devilï¿½s Claw), a harvested savannah grassland
plant found mostly in Namibia, is one of those non-listed species
that has received considerable attention. Although there is no
budget to address non-CITES species, many saw Namibiaï¿½s situation
analysis for the species as a good case study that incorporates the
voluntary involvement of the country of origin and the importing
country, as well as cooperation of regional representatives and
industry with the purpose of promoting sustainable trade. One
delegate commented that pre-emptive work on non-CITES species can
help ensure that they do no need to be listed on the Appendices in
the first place ï¿½ one of CITESï¿½ main goals.

TOWARDS PC-14

However, not
everyone knows what the goal of CITES is. In fact, CITES is still
perceived by consumers and producers as something of a repressive
regime that will limit their freedom to trade and consume. With
Namibia offering to host the next PC, many believe that holding the
meeting in a region where CITES is still held with suspicion,
especially by local collectors who are dependent on many plants
species for their livelihood, it will help improve awareness and
show that CITES can actually be used as a tool for sustainable use.
But time is of the essence as some fear that CITES is starting to
become less relevant, losing out in budget and personnel to other
international environmental agreements, especially to the CBD and
UNFCCC. Raising the Conventionï¿½s profile is another issue that will
have to be added to the agenda.

This issue of the Earth
Negotiations Bulletinï¿½ enb@iisd.org
is written and edited by Mark Schulman, Silke Speier, and Elsa Tsioumani.
The Team Leader is Mark Schulman
mark@iisd.org. The Editors are Chris Spence
chris@iisd.org and Pamela S. Chasek,
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